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Literary notes about considerate (AI summary)

The term considerate appears throughout literature as both a commendation of virtuous, thoughtful behavior and a subtle commentary on social norms. In classic works, it is often employed to praise characters’ readiness to think of others—Dante’s poetic exhortation in his immortal verse ([1]) and Dickens’s endearing portrayals of individuals who act with genuine regard for family and friends ([2], [3]) illustrate this traditional use. Meanwhile, the adjective extends into discussions of etiquette and propriety, as seen in Emily Post’s guidance on social conduct ([4], [5]), and is sometimes used in a reflective or even ironic mode when contrasting inner character with external behavior ([6]). Across these varied contexts—from moral philosophy to everyday social interactions—the word underscores both the ideal of selflessness and the intricate balance between personal autonomy and communal responsibility.
  1. Considerate la vostra semenza: fatti non foste a viver come bruti, ma per seguir virtute e canoscenza".
    — from Divina Commedia di Dante: Inferno by Dante Alighieri
  2. ‘Well, my dear,’ said Mrs. Nickleby, trying to be pleased, ‘now isn’t this thoughtful and considerate of your uncle?
    — from Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens
  3. ‘It’s my great aim and end to be considerate, sir,’ rejoined Squeers.
    — from Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens
  4. The Considerate Guest Courtesy demands that you, when you are a guest, shall show neither annoyance nor disappointment—no matter what happens.
    — from Etiquette by Emily Post
  5. It is then considerate for her to offer him a "lift," but it is equally proper for her to thank him for waiting and drive off alone.
    — from Etiquette by Emily Post
  6. Before, he had taken great pride in how considerate he was but now it hardly occurred to him that he had become so thoughtless about the others.
    — from Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka

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